• Lessons for the Future: Insights from Our Digital Transformation

    Posted on by Daniella Delgado

    At SolidCAD, we’ve been on a transformative journey that’s turned us into leaders in digital transformation consultancy. This shift was much more than just a change—it meant fully embracing a digital-first approach that has transformed how we operate. As experts in CAD, BIM, CAM, data/asset management, and cloud-based solutions we were challenged by the global pandemic (as many others were) to adapt and excel in unexpected ways. But we’re excited to share how these changes have changed our perspective.

    Why We Changed: Adapting to New Market Realities

    Our evolution was driven by the shift in communication and how we engaged with our clients, and the need to adapt to these changes quickly and efficiently. Upon extensive research many studies have proven a huge shift, that continues to evolve as new technologies are introduced, like AI.

    So, what does the research tell us?

    1. Interactions tend to be digital over traditional: A massive 76% of B2B buyers and sellers now favor digital interactions over traditional face-to-face meetings. This isn’t just a temporary adjustment but a permanent shift towards enjoying the speed and simplicity of digital dealings​ (McKinsey & Company)​.
    2. Video is taking the lead: The leap in using video to connect with businesses is staggering—there’s been a 300% increase since the start of 2020. It’s clear that video isn’t just for catching up with friends anymore; it’s a key player in professional communications too​ (Vonage Business)​.
    3. Big money goes digital too: Think big transactions can’t happen over a screen? Think again. Around 70% of decision-makers are now making high-stake purchases north of $50,000 digitally, proving that trust in digital platforms is stronger than ever​ (McKinsey & Company)​.
    4. Tech is your ultimate game changer: Post-pandemic, technology isn’t just supporting business; it’s defining it. Top companies are using tech not just to keep up but to stand out, viewing their digital expertise crucial to their competitive edge​ (McKinsey & Company)​.

    It’s one thing to have data, but it’s another to really know what to do with it. So, how did SolidCAD turn insights into action? Let’s dive into how we adapted.

    We Changed our Approach.

    Our traditional focus on face-to-face interactions has always been a key part of our client relationships. But when the pandemic hit, it pushed us to rethink our approach. It was a real eye-opener, showing us the crucial need to connect digitally and serve our clients on a global scale.

    As we navigated our own digital transformation, we began weaving digital solutions into all areas of our operations. This strategic shift was about setting new standards for how we engage with clients, but more importantly how we engage amongst each other. We wanted to ensure the same level and delivery of our top-notch services were always provided without the constraints of physical location. Now, whether our clients are across the street or on the other side of the country, we’re equipped to meet their needs with the same level of expertise and personal attention they’ve come to expect from us.

    This adaptation is how we stay ahead in an ever-evolving business landscape.

    We approached change with three key elements:

    1. Embracing Change with Purpose and Apply it across the Board: The journey began in our marketing department with the adoption of digital tools, setting the stage for a company-wide transformation. This was about more than new technology; it was about cultivating a culture proactive to change. We ensured that any technology we implemented in one department, easily integrated into all other facets of our business especially into existing workflows and systems.
    2. Learning Through Challenges: Our journey has been filled with its fair share of hurdles, from outdated tech to resistance to change. Each obstacle has taught us valuable lessons about resilience and the need to align our technology with our team’s workflows. Plus, it’s also worth noting the risks involved with digital transformation is extremely high. A Harvard Business Review survey revealed that 68% of tech implementations fail to meet at least one major goal—whether it’s budget, timeline, or outcomes—with 34% missing the mark on all three. This highlights the critical importance of carefully planning and executing digital changes effectively.
    3. Achieving Tangible Outcomes: Our dive into digital transformation has really paid off—our operations are more flexible, customer satisfaction is up, and our team feels more unified than ever. These improvements show just how key it is to continuously aim for better and keep ourselves on track. Plus, using data-driven insights meant we could make informed decisions every step of the way, ensuring our strategies were spot-on and effectively driving us toward our overall goals.

    Our Key Takeaways

    We have five key takeaways we are happy to share with others that are either advancing or even beginning their transformation journey, and that is:

    1. Look beyond Technology: It is not just about the technology or the tool itself, but how it is implemented into all processes of your business.
    2. Holistic Approach: Successful digital transformation integrates technology with strategic vision and effective change management.
    3. Data-Driven Decisions: Utilizing data effectively involves more than just its collection; it’s about interpreting and applying data to make informed business decisions.
    4. Teamwork and Collaboration: Fostering a collaborative culture is vital, as transformation affects every level of the organization.
    5. Choosing the Right Partners: Working with knowledgeable partners can provide customized solutions that enhance the speed and effectiveness of your transformation.

    Explore Our Transformation Journey

    We invite you to dive deeper into our transformation journey through our story.

    Or view our infographic of what we learned down below.

    View the Infographic

    Interested in Transforming for the Future?

    Discover how SolidCAD can assist your digital transformation by visiting our consulting. Let us help you turn challenges into opportunities and lead in the digital age.

    Overcoming the Challenges of Implementing PLM in Small to Medium Enterprises

    Posted on by David Medeiros

    Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) is a game-changer for businesses, especially for small and medium enterprises (SMEs). It’s all about managing your products efficiently from the drawing board to the customer’s hands. But, let’s be honest, implementing PLM isn’t always a walk in the park for SMEs. They face real challenges, from tight budgets to the daunting task of making big changes to how they operate.

    Yet, the benefits of getting PLM right are too significant to ignore. It can streamline operations, boost product quality, and even speed up time to market. This blog dives into what SMEs stand up against when adopting PLM and how they can successfully navigate these challenges. We’ll look at practical strategies, cost-effective solutions, and real success stories to show that, despite the hurdles, PLM can be a powerful tool for growth and innovation in the SME sector.

    Challenges Faced by SMEs in Adopting PLM

    Implementing Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) in small and medium enterprises (SMEs) isn’t always smooth sailing. Here are the main roadblocks they often run into:

    Limited Resources: One of the biggest hurdles is simply not having enough – whether it’s money, time, or staff. PLM can be a significant investment, and for SMEs watching every penny, this can be a tough pill to swallow.

    Resistance to Change: Changing how things have always been done can meet with pushback. For SMEs with tight-knit teams, convincing everyone to adapt to a new system can be challenging.

    Complexity of Solutions: PLM software comes with a lot of bells and whistles. For teams without a tech specialist, figuring out which solution fits best can feel like navigating a maze.

    Integration Issues: SMEs already use a variety of tools and systems. Finding a PLM solution that plays nicely with existing setups is crucial but not always easy.

    Tackling these challenges head-on is essential for SMEs to unlock the full potential of PLM. Up next, we’ll explore strategies to navigate these hurdles and make the PLM journey as smooth as possible.

    Strategies for Successful Implementation

    Overcoming the hurdles of PLM adoption might seem daunting, but with the right strategies, SMEs can navigate these challenges successfully.

    Conduct a thorough needs assessment before diving into PLM. It’s crucial for SMEs to understand exactly what they need from a PLM system for their business. With limited resources, it’s crucial to identify specific business processes that need improvement and any gaps in current systems. Typical needs SMEs have for PLM include Bill of Materials (BOM) management, change management (such as engineering change orders), project management, and quality management.

    Figure 1- Map your business processes to pinpoint PLM needs, ensuring a tailored fit for your company’s workflow.

    Consider using a phase-by-phase implementation for PLM. Trying to do everything at once can be overwhelming. Break down the PLM implementation into manageable phases, starting with the most critical areas. This approach reduces disruption and makes the transition smoother for everyone involved.

    Figure 2-Implement your PLM with a strategic, phase-by-phase approach, prioritizing core business processes for maximum efficiency.

    Invest in training for PLM. One of the best ways to overcome resistance to change is through comprehensive training. Ensure that everyone knows how to use the new PLM system effectively. This not only eases the transition but also helps in realizing the benefits of PLM faster.

    Get professional assistance in implementing PLM. Not all PLM solutions are created equal, especially for SMEs. Look for a partner, specifically PLM specialists that understands the unique challenges faced by smaller businesses and offers scalable, user-friendly solutions. A partner that provides strong support and training for implementing PLM can make the process a whole lot faster and smoother to finish and is well worth the investment.

    Look towards leveraging cloud-based solutions. Cloud-based PLM can be a game-changer for SMEs, offering flexibility, scalability, and cost-effectiveness. These solutions reduce the need for heavy upfront investment. Maintenance and updates are automatically pushed by the developers as well.

    By tackling PLM implementation with these strategies, SMEs can turn the tide in their favor, ensuring a smoother adoption process and a quicker path to realizing the benefits of PLM.

    Cost-Effective PLM Solutions

    For SMEs, finding a PLM solution that fits both their needs and their budget is key. Here’s a list of items to consider when finding a cost-effective PLM solution:

    • Consider “Service-as-a-Software” (SaaS) PLM Options: Subscription-based SaaS models are ideal for SMEs looking for flexibility and cost control. These models often include regular updates and maintenance, reducing the need for in-house IT support. SaaS PLM solutions ensure that SMEs can benefit from the latest features without additional costs.
    • Look for Scalable Solutions: Choose a PLM system that can scale with your business. Initially, you might only need basic functionalities like BOM management and document control. However, as your business grows, you may require more advanced features such as project management and quality control.
    • Assess the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO): Beyond the initial purchase price, consider the long-term costs associated with implementing and maintaining the PLM system. This includes training, support, customization, and upgrades. Go for solutions that offer a clear and predictable TCO, allowing for better budgeting and financial planning.
    • Utilize Built-In Templates and Tools: Some PLM systems come with pre-configured templates and tools tailored to specific industries. These can significantly reduce the time and cost associated with customizing the system to fit your business processes. Look for PLM solutions that offer these out-of-the-box resources to streamline implementation and minimize costs.

    Figure 3-Fusion Manage comes with a complete template solution to either fully adapt or partially.

    By considering these factors, SMEs can find PLM solutions that not only meet their technical and business needs but also align with their financial constraints. Cost-effective PLM adoption is within reach, enabling SMEs to leverage the benefits of PLM technology to drive growth and competitiveness.

    Case Studies Demonstrating the Impact of PLM on SMEs

    D-Wave, a leader in quantum computing, partnered with SolidCAD to implement a scalable, cloud-based PLM system. The initial focus was on core functionalities like BOM and change management.

    The results were significant: enhanced team collaboration, streamlined workflows, and a flexible system that grew with the company’s needs. This implementation not only improved D-Wave’s project delivery times and product quality but also set a foundation for sustained innovation and growth.

    Bluebeam Compare Documents vs. Overlay Pages

    Posted on by David Medeiros

    This story was originally published by FRANK KALMAN on the Bluebeam Blog.

    Discover how Compare Documents and Overlay Pages by Bluebeam transforms managing documents with precision and visual clarity.

    In the world of digital document management in the architectural, engineering and construction (AEC) industry, precision and efficiency are paramount. Professionals across the industry rely on tools that streamline their workflows and enhance collaboration.

    Bluebeam offers two powerful features—Compare Documents and Overlay Pages—each designed to serve specific purposes. In this article, we’ll delve into the intricacies of these tools to help users make informed decisions on which to use, and when.

    Compare Documents: A Closer Look

    Bluebeam’s Compare Documents feature is a robust tool designed to highlight the differences between two versions of a document. This can be especially invaluable in scenarios where document revisions are frequent.

    When a user initiates the Compare Documents function, Bluebeam Revu meticulously analyzes the content of the selected documents and generates a comprehensive report highlighting any discrepancies. This includes additions, deletions and modifications made between the two versions. The software employs a color-coded system, making it easy for users to identify changes at a glance. Typically, additions are highlighted in green, deletions in red and modifications in blue; for Compare Documents, cloud markups are added around the differences.

    The utility of Compare Documents extends beyond textual content. It can also identify changes in graphical elements, providing a holistic overview of alterations in the document. This feature not only accelerates the review process but also minimizes the risk of oversight.

    Overlay Pages: Unveiling the Integration

    Overlay Pages is another powerful feature within Bluebeam’s arsenal, designed to facilitate precise document comparisons and analysis. Unlike Compare Documents, Overlay Pages allows users to superimpose two versions of a document on top of each other, providing a visual representation of their differences.

    This feature is particularly beneficial when dealing with architectural plans or any document where graphical elements are of utmost importance. By overlaying the pages, users can visually assess discrepancies in the placement of elements, ensuring that the design conforms to specifications. This method of visual inspection can be more intuitive for certain types of documents, providing a complementary approach to the text-centric Compare Documents feature.

    Integration for Comprehensive Analysis

    While Compare Documents and Overlay Pages serve distinct purposes, their integration can offer a comprehensive solution for users seeking an exhaustive analysis of document revisions.

    By first employing Compare Documents to identify textual changes, users can then turn to Overlay Pages to visually inspect the graphical alterations. This combined approach ensures a thorough examination of both textual and visual elements, leaving no room for oversight. The seamless integration of these features in Bluebeam empowers users to achieve meticulous precision in their document review processes.

    Auto Align Makes Compare Documents and Overlay Pages Even Better

    Released in April 2024, Revu 21.1 gives Compare Documents and Overlay Pages an overhaul. Not only has the user interface been greatly improved for easier navigation and previews of the results, but Bluebeam has also added AI. Auto Align is an AI-enabled capability allowing for documents and pages to align automatically.

    Auto Align reduces the tedious, error-prone steps of manually aligning three points on each drawing revision, so users can understand the differences between them faster. Bluebeam customers currently use the Overlay and Compare features more than 5 million times a year. With the Auto Align option, users can now understand the differences in their documents and pages up to 80% faster.

    The Future of Manufacturing: iLogic & CPQ Software Unleashed 

    Posted on by admin

    The Future of Manufacturing: iLogic & CPQ Software Unleashed 

    In the ever-changing world of manufacturing, the emergence of iLogic-based CPQ (Configure, Price, Quote) technologies, such as SolidCAD’s Variant, represents a significant turning point. These innovations are leading us into a new era characterized by remarkable efficiency and unparalleled customization. This blog will look into how the combination of iLogic’s rule-based engineering and the versatile capabilities of CPQ systems is transforming industry standards.

    We’ll explore the significant benefits that iLogic-based CPQ solutions bring to the table, including streamlined operations, improved product customization, and enhanced operational efficiency. By examining these cutting-edge technologies, we’ll show how manufacturers are now better equipped to tackle the challenges of today’s complex markets with increased agility and accuracy, thereby achieving higher levels of customer satisfaction.

    Come with us to explore the endless possibilities that new ideas are bringing to the manufacturing industry. This is leading to a future with no limits, only what we can imagine.

    iLogic: The Driving Force Behind Automated Design 

    iLogic, a key component of Autodesk Inventor, is revolutionizing the world of design automation. By allowing users to create rules that automate and control design processes, iLogic significantly enhances engineering efficiency. This tool is not just about simplifying tasks; it’s about redefining how we approach design in the manufacturing software landscape. 

    Decoding CPQ: More Than Just a Tool 

    CPQ (Configure, Price, Quote) software streamlines the way businesses sell complex, configurable products. When integrated with Inventor models, this software empowers sales teams, dealers, and even customers to quickly generate accurate quotes, ensuring manufacturing efficiency and optimizing sales processes. CPQ is more than a tool; it’s a game-changer in the business solutions arena.  

    Real-World Applications of CPQ Software 

    The practical applications of CPQ software are vast and varied. From small businesses to large corporations, the implementation of CPQ software has led to significant workflow improvements and sales acceleration. Check out mk North America’s success story to see how CPQ made a tangible difference. 

    The Evolution of Manufacturing Technologies 

    As we look to the future, it’s clear that technologies like Variant are not just shaping current manufacturing processes but is also paving the way for a more efficient, productive, and innovative future in the manufacturing sector. Subscribe to our blog channel to stay tuned as we continue to explore these exciting developments in the world of manufacturing technology. To learn more about Variant CPQ, try it for yourself on our website, or contact us today at variant@solidcad.ca 

    Civil 3D 2025

    Posted on by David Medeiros

    Well, it’s that time of year again when Autodesk bestows us with the latest release of their flagship Civil Design application. Read on to see which features speak to this blogger.

    File Format

    This is probably the most-asked question, and I’m happy to say that there is yet again, no format change. We are still on the 2018 format. Good news for everyone!

    Performance

    Performance has yet again been significantly improved across the board in Civil 3D 2025.0.

    Corridors

    There is a new corridor creation dialog box that will allow for more efficient creation of corridor with multiple baselines using alignments and feature lines.

    Civil 3D 2025

    Civil 3D 2025Civil 3D 2025

    Coordinate Systems

    New horizontal coordinate systems have been provided.

    A new vertical coordinate system workflow exists to specify the survey datum. The new command is GEOCSASSIGN.

    Another new system variable named, ENABLEVCSSUPPORT, exists for DEM/GeoTIF files.

    Civil 3D 2025

    Surfaces

    Level of detail tools are intended to increase performance by reducing the amount of data displayed on the screen. Note that in 2025.0 ,two previous commands have been removed: LEVELOFDETAIL and LEVELOFDETAILOFF. These are replaced by object-based settings.

    Civil 3D 2025Civil 3D 2025

    For any questions reach out to your sales rep or contact us at info@solidcad.ca

    6 Bluebeam Features Perfect for Steel Professionals

    Posted on by David Medeiros

    This story was originally published by FRANK KALMAN on the Bluebeam Blog.

    Bluebeam has many capabilities that are ideal for the steel industry to get bids done faster and more efficiently.

    Steel is an essential building material. The people who work to procure and supply steel for construction projects spend a lot of time in the pre-construction phase tabulating the amount of the material the project will require based off plan documents, along with the estimated cost.

    Historically, steel professionals were left to do this work the old-fashioned way—off paper plans, with highlighters, pen and a host of other analog tools to calculate a project’s needed supply and estimated costs. Thanks to the advent of digital tools, that is no longer the case.

    Tools like Bluebeam now allow steel professionals the opportunity to reduce the time it takes to complete project bids with analog workflows from weeks down to a matter of days, giving them a tremendous competitive advantage.

    “The biggest advantage of using Bluebeam for steel is in the pre-construction phase of a project,” said Charles Todd, a Bluebeam industry consultant who previously spent several years working in steel fabrication. “Doing it the old, paper-based way is like doing twice the work.”

    Here are six features in Bluebeam that make it essential for the steel industry: 

    Markup List

    The Markup List adopts a table format, where each row corresponds to a markup added to an active PDF, and each column displays specific information about the markup.

    Selecting a row prompts the PDF view in the workspace to jump to the associated markup location, facilitating navigation through markups using the UP ARROW and DOWN ARROW keys.

    For steel professionals, this tool is paramount for organizing markups for quick and easy reference, especially for pre-construction estimations that go a long way toward winning bids. The list can also be exported in various document types, allowing for quick record-keeping and information sharing among colleagues.

    Measure

    The Measure tool facilitates the creation of measurements in various modes. These measurements can either persist as markups, helping in processing and summarization through the Markup List, particularly valuable for estimation and takeoffs. Alternatively, they can be temporary, providing a swift means to measure without generating a visual record on the PDF.

    Measuring and creating cost estimates for steel beams are critical in the pre-construction estimation process. Not only can steel professionals find massive time savings in using the measurement tool, but customization capability also allows users to associate accurate weights for steel quantities. This can help steel workers calculate accurate materials costs with the click of a button.

    Count

    The Count tool generates a markup with every mouse click, linking a cumulative count with each placed markup. It resembles Sequences in the Tool Chest, differing in that it introduces a preconfigured (typically less conspicuous) or personalized symbol onto the PDF. Moreover, the Count tool maintains an ongoing tally, either per page or Space, for each item counted. In contrast, Sequences count on the PDF without maintaining a continuous tally, treating each markup independently and refraining from grouping them in the Markup List.

    For drawings that need to identify and count the specific number of steel beams, for instance, this tool can be incredibly helpful. Simply clicking each beam or other building element in a digital plan document allows the tool to automatically tally a total number.

    Tool Sets

    Tool Sets in Bluebeam can be generated and exchanged seamlessly among various users. These sets are versatile, allowing for local saving, network sharing or exportation to other users. Sharing Tool Sets proves invaluable for establishing consistent markups tailored to diverse projects, job roles, clients and beyond. Effectively managing these Tool Sets is a crucial aspect of maximizing the utility of Bluebeam.

    Steel fabricators can establish Custom Tool Sets specific for their needs during the pre-construction estimation process, allowing for a cleaner and more efficient workflow for creating job-winning bids faster.

    Profiles

    Profiles offer a convenient method to save preferred toolbars, menus and display settings, ensuring that the most essential tools are easily accessible every time Bluebeam opens.

    What’s more, as with Tool Sets, Profiles can be customized for steel workers’ specific needs. Doing so allows workers maximum levels of efficiency for all specific steel-industry uses of the software, such that workers don’t have to toggle between unfamiliar or unnecessary tools to get the job done.

    Integration with External Digital Tools

    Finally, many of these tools in Bluebeam can be integrated with other essential steel industry digital tools. For example, exporting the Markup List to a Microsoft Excel file is one way to then upload that information into another piece of complementary software. Such seamless integration allows steel workers to complete complex estimation tasks in a fraction of the time that it would take with old, analog processes. What’s more, calculations are more likely to be accurate, leading to fewer errors or costly and time-consuming rework.

    Bluebeam is an essential tool for anyone in the architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) industry, but it is especially useful for those working in steel.

    AutoCAD 2025

    Posted on by David Medeiros

    Well, it’s that time of year again when Autodesk bestows us with the latest release of their flagship drafting application. Here is the Official Documentation. Read on to see which features speak to this blogger.

    File Format

    This is probably the most-asked question, and I’m happy to say that there is yet again, no format change. We are still on the 2018 format. Good news for everyone!

    Activity Insights

    More actions are being logged into the Insights.

    If you use the DWG History tools, these have been merged with Activity Insights. Note: the history is now only available within the Insights palette. The DWGHISTORY command no longer exists, though the functionality is still there.

    AutoCAD 2025

    AutoCAD 2025

    Markups

    Markups from Autodesk Docs are now supported.

    Assigning specific annotation styles is now possible.

    Polygonal revision clouds are supported.

    Comments attached to markups are selectable.

    Hatch

    This one is pretty cool! Draw a new hatch object without creating or specifying a boundary. E.g. use the new hatch rectangle command to quickly create a hatch. Not limited to rectangles; any shape is possible.

    A new hatch path option is available. This creates a hatch of a specified width along a path, like a polyline.

    AutoCAD 2025

    Blocks

    AutoCAD can use machine learning to detect linework and convert that linework to a block. Imagine a drawing where all the door blocks were exploded. You would prefer that they had not been. Use the new command to identify those door lines and convert them to a block

    AutoCAD 2025      AutoCAD 2025

    ESRI Maps

    ESRI maps are now integrated into AutoCAD. Now, you can use five additional types of Esri maps to assign geographic location information to a drawing file.

     

    AutoCAD 2025

    AutoCAD 2025

    For any questions reach out to your sales rep or contact us at info@solidcad.ca

    Civil 3D: Object Names and Style Descriptions

    Posted on by David Medeiros

    Does your company require the use of a specific naming convention for Civil 3D objects? Has it been difficult to adhere to that standard? If so, read on for some tips.

    When an object is created in Civil 3D, it requires a name. This is the naming convention for a new alignment using the out of the box Civil 3D drawing template. It will be named Alignment – (1), the next one will be Alignment t – (2), etc. This name is not very descriptive, and I hope you’re using something better than this already!

    Here is an example of a company’s strict naming convention.

    1234-C-Granville-ALG

    • 1234                     =             project number
    • C                            =             civil
    • Granville              =             road name
    • ALG                       =             alignment

    Users must refer to a naming standard, often a PDF document somewhere on the network, and this can take time. Under pressure, users sometimes skip the formalities and use a non-standard name. We must make it as easy and fast as possible for them.

    Why not embed this standard into the drawing template itself so users won’t need to open another file? Here is how this could be done directly in your Civil 3D drawing template. The users’ responsibilities would be to edit the mixed-caps data and leave the ALL CAPS data.

    Prompting the user with the information they need when they need it will help to ensure better efficiency and (potentially more important) reduce the chance that they use non-standard names. This can be done for all relevant Civil 3D objects in the Settings tab by:

    • Editing the Feature Settings for the object in question.

    • Configuring the name template.

    • Clearing any child overrides so all alignments get named properly regardless of the command used.

     

     

     

     

    While we’re on the subject, it can be beneficial to include a good description with styles so that users are prompted when or why to use a style. I try not to have make the description so long that my users need to scroll to see the entire thing. They won’t! Make it concise.

    REAL-LIFE SUCCESS STORIES WITH MERIDIAN

    Posted on by David Medeiros

    In the ever-evolving landscape of engineering and asset management, organizations seek robust solutions to streamline their documentation processes. Accruent Meridian has emerged as a game-changer, empowering companies across various industries to efficiently manage their critical information. Let’s explore some real-life success stories where Meridian played a pivotal role:

    1. Energy sector: optimizing workflows

    THE CHALLENGE:

    A leading energy company faced challenges in maintaining accurate records for its vast network of power plants, substations, and transmission lines. Manual paper-based systems resulted in inefficiencies, data duplication, and compliance gaps.

    THE SOLUTION:

    The company implemented Meridian to centralize its engineering documents, including schematics, equipment manuals, and maintenance logs. With Meridian’s version control and access permissions, engineers could collaborate seamlessly. Integration with their Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS) ensured real-time updates.

    THE BENEFITS:

    • Reduced Downtime: Faster access to critical information minimized downtime during maintenance.
    • Compliance Assurance: Auditors praised the system’s transparency and adherence to industry standards.
    • Cost Savings: Elimination of paper-based processes led to significant cost savings.

    2. Manufacturing: accelerating product development

    THE CHALLENGE:

    A global manufacturing firm struggled with document version chaos. Engineers often worked with outdated drawings, leading to errors, rework, and delays in product development.

    THE SOLUTION:

    Meridian’s automated version control and revision tracking transformed their engineering change process. Integration with Computer-Aided Design (CAD) tools allowed seamless updates. Engineers could collaborate on designs in real time.

    THE BENEFITS:

    • Faster Time-to-Market: Streamlined processes reduced design iteration cycles.
    • Quality Improvements: Accurate, up-to-date drawings minimized errors.
    • Regulatory Compliance: Meridian ensured compliance with industry standards.

    3. Construction: managing complex projects

    THE CHALLENGE:

    A construction company faced information overload during large-scale projects. Managing blueprints, specifications, and vendor documentation became overwhelming.

    THE SOLUTION:

    Meridian’s centralized repository organized project documents. Role-based access control allowed stakeholders to access relevant information. Mobile access enabled field teams to retrieve data on-site.

    THE BENEFITS:

    • Project Efficiency: Quick access to project plans improved decision-making.
    • Risk Mitigation: Compliance tracking reduced legal risks.
    • Collaboration: Contractors, architects, and project managers collaborated seamlessly.

    4. Healthcare: ensuring regulatory compliance

    THE CHALLENGE:

    The hospital system struggled with maintaining accurate records for its medical equipment. Compliance audits were time-consuming and error prone.

    THE SOLUTION:

    Meridian’s robust metadata management allowed tagging equipment with critical details. Integration with the hospital’s Electronic Health Record (EHR) system ensured seamless data flow.

    THE BENEFITS:

    • JCAHO Compliance: Quick access to project plans improved decision-making.
    • Equipment Lifecycle Management: Compliance tracking reduced legal risks.
    • Cost Control: Contractors, architects, and project managers collaborated seamlessly.

    CONCLUSION:

    Accruent Meridian isn’t just software; it’s an enabler of efficiency, collaboration, and growth. These success stories demonstrate how organizations, regardless of their industry, can leverage Meridian to unlock measurable benefits. Whether it’s reducing downtime, improving compliance, or enhancing collaboration, Meridian continues to shape the future of engineering documentation management.

    Remember, success stories aren’t just about technology—they’re about the people who embrace it and drive positive change. So, consider Meridian as your partner in achieving excellence! To learn more contact us today  SolidCAD Meridian Team.

    The Role of PLM in Streamlining New Product Development

    Posted on by David Medeiros

    Introduction: The Importance of NPI in Product Development

    In today’s fast-paced and competitive market, the ability to innovate and bring new products to market swiftly is not just an advantage; it’s a necessity for growth. For product and manufacturing managers, the pressure is on more than ever to not only keep up with the pace but to lead the charge.

    New Product Introduction (NPI) process is pivotal element that can spell the difference between success and failure for product launch. NPI is the comprehensive process of bringing a new product from concept to market, encompassing design, development, testing, and launch phases. As businesses strive to outperform competitors and satisfy ever-evolving customer demands, the role of NPI emerges as a critical process where efficiency, speed, and innovation converge. Yet, navigating the complexities of product development, from conceptualization to launch, poses a formidable challenge. This is where Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) steps in, transforming the NPI process from a daunting task into a streamlined, strategic asset that propels companies towards success.

    PLM’s Role in NPI

    Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) is managing the entire lifecycle of a product from inception, through engineering design and manufacture, to service and disposal, by integrating people, data, processes, and business systems. While NPI focuses specifically on the process of bringing a new product to market, PLM encompasses a broader strategy managing the entire lifecycle of a product, from initial concept through to its ultimate disposal, including the NPI phase.

    PLM in NPI

    Figure 1: PLM in NPI – The entire map is PLM, encompassing every aspect of a typical business’ processes. NPI is a component of PLM that is typically the starting point of your development of a new product or project.

    PLM serves as the backbone for NPI, providing a robust framework that revolutionizes how companies manage product data, foster cross-functional collaboration, and ensure compliance with industry standards as shown in Figure 1. By centralizing product information in PLM, it enables all stakeholders, from engineers to marketers, to access up-to-date data, ensuring that decision-making is based on the most current information. This centralizing of product information not only streamlines the NPI process but also significantly reduces errors and redundancies, accelerating the time-to-market.

    Furthermore, certain PLM software such as Autodesk’s Fusion 360 Manage, have collaborative tools that break down silos between departments, enhancing communication and coordination across various teams in your NPIs. These tools include task management, BOM management, automated notifications, Gantt charts to display project progress and more. This synergy is vital for aligning goals, refining product designs, and ensuring that every aspect of the product introduction is synchronized.

    Strategies for Effective NPI Using PLM

    Utilizing the NPI process in PLM is pivotal for companies aiming to streamline their product development and launch processes. To maximize the effectiveness of PLM, several best practices are essential. Firstly, establishing a centralized database for product information is critical. This repository becomes the single source of truth for all data related to the product, from initial design sketches to final specifications, ensuring consistency and accessibility across the organization.

    Integrating PLM with other enterprise systems, such as Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) and Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems, further enhances effective use of NPI. Such integration ensures seamless information flow across different business processes in their respective software solution, facilitating better decision-making and reducing time-to-market in your NPI process. For instance, ERP is typically used to manage supply chain. Thus, integrating PLM with ERP allows for real-time visibility into the supply chain, aiding in materials planning and financial forecasting and connecting it your product data such as the product BOM.

    To dive deeper into this, watch Autodesk’s webinar about utilizing PLM to bring your new products faster. The webinar explains how leveraging PLM software for project management and workflow automation is another best practice that can significantly impact the NPI process. This article by Autodesk further highlights the systems in PLM and briefly covers how NPI works alongside processes.

    Case Studies

    Reynaers Aluminium, a leading innovator in architectural solutions, demonstrates the remarkable benefits of integrating PLM into their New Product Introduction (NPI) processes. By adopting Fusion 360 Manage, Reynaers addressed critical challenges in product development, achieving remarkable outcomes. The customer story will go in depth of this transformation by adopting Fusion 360 Manage as their PLM solution and using it as a tool for various uses, including managing their projects with their product data.

    Conclusion

    Throughout this article, we’ve underscored the critical role of PLM in enhancing and streamlining NPI, from providing a centralized platform for managing product data to facilitating cross-functional collaboration with other business essential software such as ERP and CRM. The advent of PLM technology, particularly with the emergence of cloud-based solutions like Fusion 360 Manage, marks a significant evolution in the field. These modern PLM systems offer unprecedented flexibility and efficiency, enabling organizations to respond more dynamically to market demands and innovate at a faster pace.